Social Comparison Home Water Reports
Multiple US water utilities · United States (multi-site) · 2014
Summary
The Opower-style neighbor comparison design applied to water produced a larger proportional effect than in energy (5% vs. 2%), likely because water use is less salient and households have more headroom for reduction. High users reduced most; below-average users showed a small 'boomerang' effect that was dampened by smiley-face feedback. The heterogeneity suggests targeting high-usage households improves cost-effectiveness substantially.
Research question
"Can bi-monthly reports comparing household water use to neighbors reduce consumption?"
Methodology
Intervention
Bi-monthly home water reports with neighbor comparison, tips, and conservation program information
Assignment
Randomized controlled trial (household)
Sample size
~100,000 households
Primary outcome
Household water consumption
Effect estimate
−5% water consumption; effects largest among high-usage households
Decision
Water report programs adopted by utilities nationwide; replicated globally
Result
Positive
−5% water consumption; effects largest among high-usage households
Evidence strength
Strong
Randomized trial, replicated across multiple sites or studies.
Replication status
Replicated
Institution
Multiple US water utilities
Location
United States (multi-site)
Year
2014
Policy area
Energy & Environment
Mechanism
Social norms